Research Fellow in Analytical Chemistry

Post Title: Research Fellow in Analytical Chemistry 

Post Status: Specific Purpose Contract – Full-time. 

Research Group / Department / School: O’Boyle Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin 

Location: School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panoz Institute, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland 

Reports to: Dr. Niamh O’Boyle (TCD) and Dr. John Bourke (South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork) 

Salary: Appointment will be made on the IUA researcher salary scale for postdoctoral researcher PD1 at a point in line with Government Pay Policy [€46,305 to €51,479 per annum], appointment will be made no higher than point 5. 

Hours of Work: Full Time 

Closing Date: 12 Noon (GMT), 24 May 2025

Post Summary 

Our research group is investigating skin allergy related to medical devices. Continuous glucose-monitoring devices and insulin pump systems have become an essential component of the management of diabetes, a chronic disease that affects over 500 million people worldwide. As the prevalence of diabetes increases, the use of these devices is also expanding. These devices are affixed to the patient’s skin using an adhesive patch. Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to components of glucose-monitoring sensors and insulin pumps is increasingly problematic as disease management becomes dependent on wearable technologies.

The objective of this project is to analyse the chemical composition of diabetic medical devices to understand what allergenic chemicals are present, focusing on emerging skin allergens. We expect to establish the identity and quantity of skin allergens present in devices currently used by patients. In line with best practice, we will take a dual approach and patch-test patients presenting with skin allergy to these devices to identify the clinically relevant allergens. This will allow us to counsel patients on the best strategy for avoiding skin allergy to their medical devices. Identification of skin allergens will also provide valuable information to the manufacturers of these devices to enable replacement of currently used chemicals with better, less toxic alternatives.

The principal techniques used in this project will be gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The work will involve collaboration with clinical colleagues at South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork, Dept of Paediatrics, Cork University Hospital and University College Cork.

Person Specification
The successful candidate will have the necessary technical skills for the project, together with organisational skills an ability to plan experiments, analyse data and write reports.

Qualifications
Minimum of PhD in analytical chemistry or a closely related area.
 

Knowledge & Experience (Essential & Desirable)

Essential:
• Experience in mass spectrometry is essential for this role.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills with the capability of working within a project team to achieve results.
 

Desirable:
• Experience in GC/MS method development and quantification is an advantage.
• Record of scientific publication and presentation at scientific conferences.
• Previous postdoctoral experience.